SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois Senate Democrats are working on numerous bills to try and increase access to health care and health care products.
One of the bills aims to require insurance to cover hearing aids. Currently, it’s only mandated for those under 18.
The bill’s sponsor is Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria).
“Hearing aids can cost thousands of dollars, and devices are really, like I say, essential for people who have to rely on these,” Koehler said. “Passing this initiative we’re making these accessible to everyone who needs them.”
Another bill, sponsored by Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island), would limit the cost of EpiPens. It would cap the cost of a twin pack to $60.
“The really is families don’t just rely on one twin pack for these things,” Halpin said. “They have to have one for home, keep one at school, keep one at a friend’s house maybe if they’re often overnight or a daycare. This isn’t just one package that we’re talking about. And those costs add up quickly.”
Senate Democrats are also working on legislation to help out people who are struggling with hospital or medical bills by providing more time and resources to assist them.
